fourth generation computer

Microprocessors, integrated circuits that house a computer's central processing unit (CPU) on a single chip, are what distinguish fourth-generation computers. These computers were a significant departure from the larger and more expensive computers of previous generations. The personal computer (PC) and the microcomputer market emerged during the fourth generation of computers.

Due to their size and price, computers of the fourth generation were only available to large businesses and government agencies. The microprocessor, on the other hand, changed the game and made it possible for people to own and use computers. In 1971, the Intel 4004 became the first microprocessor. The Intel 8080, which was used in the first personal computer, the Altair 8800, came next.

The operating system, a piece of software that oversees a computer's hardware and software resources, was developed during the fourth generation of computers. Microsoft Disk Operating System (MS-DOS), which debuted in 1981, was the initial operating system developed specifically for personal computers. MS-DOS was widely used by other PC manufacturers and was the standard operating system for the IBM PC.

The development of the graphical user interface (GUI), which made it possible for users to interact with the computer using visual elements like icons and menus rather than typing commands, was one of the most notable developments in computers of the fourth generation. Apple Computer created the first graphical user interface (GUI) for its Macintosh computer. Microsoft Windows followed, becoming the standard operating system for personal computers.

One more significant improvement of the fourth era was the presentation of the web and the Internet (WWW). The web permitted clients to associate with distant PCs and trade data, while the WWW made it conceivable to get to data from anyplace on the planet through pages. The development of e-commerce and the digital economy was facilitated by this, which revolutionized communication and information access.

Fourth era PCs were likewise substantially more remarkable and quicker than their ancestors. It was possible to pack more computing power into smaller and less expensive devices thanks to the use of microprocessors. By the end of the fourth generation, the clock speed of the first microcomputers had increased to over 100 MHz. The clock speed of the first microcomputers was about 1 MHz. This made it conceivable to run complex applications, for example, PC supported plan (computer aided design) and PC helped producing (CAM) programming, which were beforehand just accessible on centralized server PCs.

Additionally, fourth-generation computers were simpler to operate and more dependable than previous generations. Computers were less likely to break down as a result of the use of integrated circuits, which made it possible to reduce the number of components. Hard disk drives made it possible to store a lot of data, and the development of the graphical user interface (GUI) and the mouse made it easier for users to interact with the computer.

The fourth generation of computers also marked the beginning of the home computer market, which was dominated by IBM, Apple, and Commodore personal computers. Customers liked these computers because they were affordable and easy to use. Software companies, manufacturers of peripherals, and retail stores that sold computers and accessories all emerged as a result of the home computer market.

In conclusion, the design, use, and perception of computers all changed significantly with the fourth generation. The microprocessor, operating system, graphical user interface (GUI), internet, and home computer market all had significant effects on society and altered how people lived, worked, and communicated. The development of the personal computer and the digital age were made possible by the fourth generation of computers, which also laid the groundwork for the subsequent generation.